Colombia: Armed group declares 'armed strike' in southern Choco Department from Feb. 10.

The National Liberation Army (Ejercito de le Liberacion Nacional, ELN), announced an 'armed strike' along the San Juan, Sipi and Cajon rivers of southern Choco Department from Feb. 10. The group stated that the decision had been made following alleged paramilitary attacks against the population and the presence of Public Force and paramilitary checkpoints along the rivers. The ELN has called on civilians to avoid traveling in the affected area. The declaration of an 'armed strike' comes days after the extension of a ceasefire between the ELN and the Colombian government on Feb. 6.

Colombian security forces will likely implement heightened security measures along major thoroughfares in the Choco Department, as well as in some urban and rural areas.

Business operations and travel on regional routes will likely be affected in threatened areas during the coming days. ELN members may attempt to attack security forces as well as non-compliant individuals and businesses. Disruptions related to the armed strike are most likely to affect rural areas and small towns outside of Colombian security forces' credible radius of deterrence.